Cambelt inspection is a topic we come across often, but unfortunately access is limited to at best a top view by removing the right hand cover.

Trouble is the belt is under tension and of course the underside of the belt is almost non viewable.

 

Take a look at the two photo`s bearing in mind the belt is removed and so is not under tension so would actually look better if still fitted added to the restricted view when in place.

 

The first picture showns both the top section and the underneath at the same time, this a luxury you do not have when its in place of course, either way its fair to say most viewers would concider leaving it well alone as in good order and replace the cover happy its been checked.

 

 

However now take a look at the second photo, this was taken at the same time but higher zoom.

 

Now more detail can be seen with crazing of the upper part of the belt but more important is the underneath section which now shows delamination of the belts outer materials between the teeth.

 

This belt is pobably not about to snap, but is well into the stages of failing, never take for granted the view of the belt when installed on the engine as its condition and estimated life left, if in doubt change it and use a genuine Nissan one too, a follow up post tomorrow will explain why.

 

 

Jeff TT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jeff, every time you post up stuff im intriged. only one word to describe you mate.

GURU,

makes me look out for things before they happen.

Keep em coming:D

what would you recommended as a reasonable time interval to consider changing the belt?... not interested in the recommended mileage as i dont do enough miles in it, but as a timescale, what is a sensible schedule to stick to?

Jeff, every time you post up stuff im intriged. only one word to describe you mate.

GURU,

makes me look out for things before they happen.

Keep em coming:D

 

Shucks you making me blush:D

 

what would you recommended as a reasonable time interval to consider changing the belt?... not interested in the recommended mileage as i dont do enough miles in it, but as a timescale, what is a sensible schedule to stick to?

 

As the rubber detoriates with time as well as mileage my thoughts are every 5years as a minimum if its a Nissan belt and much less for a non Nissan belt even if it looks in ok condition when removed, just not worth the risk.

 

Often when I show the old belt to customers if it does not look like a bootlace they seem dissapointed, but I explain that when it is in ok condition its the exactly the right time to change it and not wait till it looks too bad.

 

Hope that helps

 

Jeff TT

certainly does cheerZ chap